When I first stepped off the plane in London, I couldn’t believe I was finally here. After months of planning and anticipation, I was about to experience the United Kingdom not as a tourist, but as a student studying public health. I was excited, a little nervous, and eager to see how healthcare and everyday life differed from what I knew in the United States. It was a little overwhelming at first, but also incredibly exciting.
As the days passed, I found myself falling in love with London for many reasons, but my favorite part has been the people and the city’s incredible history. London is a place where centuries-old buildings stand next to modern skyscrapers, and every street seems to tell a story. I was also surprised by how welcoming and helpful people were whenever we needed directions or recommendations. Whether ordering fish and chips at a local pub or grabbing a quick meal from a neighborhood café, every experience felt uniquely British. What I think I’ll miss most is simply walking through the city each day and discovering something new around every corner.
One of the biggest reasons I chose this program was the opportunity to learn about healthcare from a different perspective. Instead of sitting in a traditional classroom every day, our classroom became London itself. We visited organizations like The Health Foundation, MSF, the British Medical Association, Cambridge University Hospitals, Royal London Hospital, Imperial College, and toured the famous Gordon’s Pathology Museum at King’s College. We met with professionals working in public health, medicine, and health policy. It was fascinating to hear how healthcare decisions are made in the UK and to compare the NHS with the American healthcare system. Rather than memorizing information from a textbook, we were learning directly from the people shaping healthcare policy.
Our excursions were another highlight of the trip. We explored some of England’s most famous landmarks, including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Windsor Castle. We also traveled to Cambridge and York, where we experienced a different side of England beyond London. Each city had its own personality and history, making every excursion feel like a new adventure. Traveling with classmates made these experiences even more memorable. Whether we were taking photos, navigating train stations, or trying local restaurants together, we quickly became a close-knit group.
Meeting local residents was one of the most rewarding aspects of studying abroad. We spoke with healthcare professionals, university faculty, museum guides, and everyday Londoners. One thing that stood out to me was how community-oriented many conversations were, especially when discussing healthcare. People often spoke about the NHS as a shared national institution, even while acknowledging its current challenges. Hearing these perspectives helped me better understand how healthcare reflects a country’s culture and values.
Although English is spoken in both the United States and the United Kingdom, I quickly realized that we don’t always speak the same “language.” It took some time to get used to the British accent and vocabulary. Words like “queue” instead of line, “lift” instead of elevator, and “boot” instead of trunk became part of my daily vocabulary. I also found myself smiling every time someone said “cheers” as a way of saying thank you. Fortunately, everyone was patient when we asked questions, and these small differences made the experience even more enjoyable.
If I had to describe this experience using my five senses, it would be unforgettable. I saw centuries of history blended with modern city life. I tasted traditional British foods alongside cuisines from around the world. I heard the sounds of the Underground, church bells, and conversations in countless accents. I smelled fresh pastries from neighborhood bakeries and coffee shops each morning. Most importantly, I felt a growing sense of confidence and curiosity with every new experience. Each day challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and see the world from a different perspective.
As our time in England comes to an end, I find myself feeling very differently than I did when I first arrived. My nervousness has been replaced with confidence, and my uncertainty has become appreciation for a country that welcomed us so warmly. My suitcase is filled with souvenirs, photographs, and gifts for family and friends, but the things I’ll treasure most are the memories and the knowledge I’ve gained.
Studying abroad has been much more than traveling to another country. It has challenged my assumptions, broadened my understanding of public health, and helped me grow both personally and professionally. As I prepare to return home, I know I’ll carry these lessons with me throughout my education and future career. London has left a lasting impression on me, and I hope to return one day.
